Belichick making the big bucks, Mallett on track and more

AP Photo/Winslow TownsonBill Belichick became the highest paid coach in professional sports, according to Forbes.

Belichick is bringing in the big bucks.

According to Forbes magazine and WEEI, Patriot's coach Bill Belichick is now officially the highest paid coach in professional sports.

With the retirement of Lakers coach Phil Jackson, Belichick earned the top spot.

The Patriots have never publicly disclosed Belichick's contract situation, but the magazine estimates Belichick takes home an annual salary of $7.5 million.

That means that Belichick edged out Seattle's Pete Carroll and Washington's Mike Shanahan, both of whom take home about $7 million a year. Belichick even edged Celtics coach Doc Rivers who just signed a new contract and joined the $7 million club.

Bledsoe's take on Mallett

Drew Bledsoe knows a thing or two about having a good back up quarterback behind your star starter.

"They saw value there in a talented guy who can come in and learn behind Tommy [Brady] for years to come, and then if he's called into service -- hopefully that never happens -- but if he is called into service, having some talent and learning behind one of the best in the game should serve them well if that ever happens. That backup quarterback position is never important until it becomes the most important thing. That was probably a wise selection on their part to have a quality talent behind Tommy if he ever does get injured."

Mallett on track during lockout

The lockout is hard on everyone inside and outside of the NFL but it's got to be particularly tough for the newly drafted rookies.

According to ESPN Boston, Patriots draft pick Ryan Mallett is trying to stay sharp during these tough times.

"That’s the hardest part, especially when you’re playing quarterback," said Mallett. "You want to get into the playbook, and absorb, and just soak in as much as you can, and be around people who have done it."

Mallett is in L.A. for the 2011 Topps Rookie Premiere Event, as he will be one of this year's rookies with his own football card.

Also from ESPN, Mallett has yet to meet with Tom Brady.

"I’m sure I will soon. I think we have some things coming up that we’re going to work on.”

Brady beats out Gisele on Forbes list

Tom Brady may wear the pants (or the Uggs) in the household according to NESN and Forbes.

Brady beat out Gisele on Forbes list of the Most Powerful Celebrities.

"Brady ranked 55th on the list, five spots ahead of Gisele at No. 60. We doubt Brady spiked the magazine and did a full-on touchdown dance, though. It was probably more understated, something like a spirited first down signal before gathering himself back on the couch."